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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Fulton Market

Cool spots

Made for those who seek out establishments that define the current aesthetic of the neighborhood.

Based on 665 Opinions
+662
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Updated May 2026
01
Sushi by Bou- Fulton Market Chicago @ Emily Hotel image 1
Sushi by Bou- Fulton Market Chicago @ Emily Hotel image 2
Sushi by Bou- Fulton Market Chicago @ Emily Hotel image 3
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Small, intimate restaurant with 12 seats and a speakeasy vibe featuring 90s hip hop music and graffiti art. Atmosphere feels lively yet personal, enhanced by craft cocktails and attentive service. Known for high-quality sushi and an engaging omakase experience.

Fine dining centers on omakase with high quality food and perfect presentation. The vibe, music, and service all match the food's standard.

Watching chefs prepare food and chatting with them creates a unique, intimate vibe. The spot offers top-tier sushi with a cool throwback atmosphere.

People are saying

"The Japanese food service was so personal and professional, it made the evening special."

"The food's inventive flavors and stunning presentations were amazing."

"The sushi here is so cool, with amazing flavors and high-quality fish."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required due to limited seating.

2

Karaoke sessions are available during visits.

3

The omakase experience costs $65 for 12 pieces of sushi.

02
Carbon image 1
Restaurant

Beautiful space blends lounge and club with stylish atmosphere and awesome music. Energy shifts from chill vibes during dinner to lively nightlife with DJs. Crowd enjoys top-tier service and a unique setting unlike typical venues.

Food here is consistently tasty and fantastic with a level of quality that stands out. The menu pairs well with premium cocktails to complete the experience.

Atmosphere feels like pure luxury with a sleek, modern design. The vibe is classy, chic, and cool, standing out from typical nightclubs.

People are saying

"The staff's friendly, attentive service makes the nightlife here unforgettable."

"I found the food here to be delicious and great."

"I found the vibe here to be really cool and new."

Good to know

1

Happy hour on Thursdays features $6 martinis from 4-7pm.

2

Expect a lively atmosphere during happy hour with fashionable crowds.

3

The venue transitions from dining to nightlife after 9pm.

03
Pasta Via image 1
Italian restaurant

Open kitchen reveals fresh pasta made daily, with staff rolling dough and finishing plates in view. Warm, inviting atmosphere combines simmering sauce aromas with upbeat music and art murals that add character. Ordering happens via kiosks, and tables come with oil and Parmesan cheese, creating a casual yet sophisticated vibe.

Food bursts with authentic flavor and freshness. Italian dishes carry a sense of history and the manager checks in on customers during cooking.

An open kitchen lets you watch your order made fresh. Many custom options add variety. The artwork on the walls stands out.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is made from scratch and tastes incredibly fresh."

"The food here is fresh, homemade, and tastes like authentic Italian cuisine."

"The pasta here is fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

All their pasta is made fresh daily.

2

They do not use any seed oils in their pasta.

3

Pasta Via offers great pasta at a wildly affordable price.

04
Yokocho Handrolls and Omakase Bar image 1

Intimate space inspired by Japanese alleys offers cozy, dimly lit atmosphere with live chef preparation visible from excellent bar seating. The vibe blends American-Japanese bar energy with a quaint, sultry setting suited for small groups or quiet evenings.

Food features fresh, authentic Japanese ingredients with careful preparation and fine textures and techniques. Sitting at the bar offers a view of chefs crafting dishes and answering questions.

Intimate ambience sets a very cool and casual vibe throughout the space.

People are saying

"The bar seating offers amazing omakase and thoughtful, fresh Japanese food."

"The handrolls here are a cool surprise, especially the wagyu."

"The food here is unbelievably fresh."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for busy nights, but not required.

2

The omakase experience costs $175 per person and is unique.

3

Happy hour runs from 5-7 PM Tuesday to Friday with $6 handrolls.

05
Puttery image 1
Miniature golf course

Large, well-decorated space features a library-themed course and a rooftop area with notable views. Atmosphere combines jazz music with a fun, social vibe suited for couples and groups. Miniature golf includes a digital scoring system enhancing the experience.

Food comes out tasty and well presented. The menu offers a solid mix of flavors that pair well with drinks.

A fun work event fits well in this space. Staff like Rodney add a helpful and cool vibe.

People are saying

"You'll have a fun time with the challenging mini golf courses."

"The staff here are amazing and make your date night special."

"The atmosphere here is so cool and laid back."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for larger groups or events.

2

The bar is wheelchair accessible, but the golf courses are not.

3

Expect upscale pricing for food and drinks at the venue.

06
Alhambra Palace Chicago image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Dining hall showcases Moroccan art and waterfalls, creating a breathtaking and authentic atmosphere. Entertainment includes phenomenal shows and a DJ mixing for a multicultural crowd, adding lively energy. The vibe feels like a journey between Chicago and Morocco, blending historical touches with vibrant performances.

Food here delivers an amazing taste paired with awesome service. The dining experience combines fun and entertainment seamlessly.

Belly dancing performances add a unique vibe. The fancy decor and cool lights create a great atmosphere for dancing.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, with tender lamb shanks that melt in your mouth."

"I loved the salsa dancing and lessons on Thursdays."

"The atmosphere and decor here are really cool."

Good to know

1

Salsa night happens every Thursday with dance lessons starting at 8pm.

2

A default gratuity of at least 18% is added to all bills.

3

Expect a cover charge for special events, typically around $10.

07
Inkwell image 1

Bar with intimate setting and old school decor featuring bookshelves and vinyl music creates a low-key, welcoming vibe. Small tables suit quiet conversations, making it ideal for dates or casual meetups. Cocktails are thoughtfully crafted, complementing the relaxed atmosphere.

Menus focus on perfect sharing and drink pairings. Food consistently comes out great and pairs well with drinks.

A cool vibe fills the space with amazing craft cocktails served by cool bartenders.

People are saying

"I found the cocktails to be beautifully crafted and delicious."

"I loved the cool vibe and great music here."

"I thought the food here was amazing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers $12 old fashioneds and runs from 4-7pm on weekdays.

2

Inkwell tests out new cocktails every weekend, providing a fresh experience.

3

Drink prices range from $15-20, with food priced similarly.

08
After Chicago image 1

Luxurious space with glowing circular bar and plush velvet seating creates a moody lounge atmosphere. Live music adds intimate, vibrant energy while acoustics keep conversations private. Drinks and food offer a unique, crafted experience with standout cocktails and dishes.

Food features decadent items like Crab Cupcakes, Vietnamese Duck Wings, and Duck Liver Uncrustable with carbonated Grapes. Drinks include fantastic cocktails that complement the awesome menu.

Soft lighting and grooving music create a chill vibe with a moody chic atmosphere. The space feels dark yet cool, offering a calm and approachable setting.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, thoughtfully prepared, and creative."

"The food here is delicious, technically impressive, and creative."

"The vibe here is really cool and moody."

Good to know

1

Parking is available right outside the venue for easy access.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-6 pm on Fridays with special drink promotions.

3

Live music occurs every Wednesday, adding to the atmosphere.

09
Postcard image 1

Narrow, stylish cafรฉ with warm, thoughtful design creates a space to slow down and recharge. Live DJs spinning vinyl and a high-quality sound system set a trendy, Berlin-like vibe. Comfortable couches and no laptop policy on weekends encourage purposeful interaction and relaxation.

Food features excellent quality and delicious drinks that complement the meals. The setting encourages purposeful interaction with the surroundings while enjoying the dishes.

Inviting atmosphere and beautiful design create a spot with consistently cool vibes.

People are saying

"I loved the iced matcha with its perfect umami and nuttiness."

"The vibe here is just cool and inviting."

"The food here is amazing and visually appealing."

Good to know

1

Laptop work is banned on weekends, so plan accordingly.

2

Expect limited seating, especially during peak hours.

3

No outside food is allowed, so plan your snacks accordingly.

10
Bottom Lounge image 1
Live music venue

Small, intimate live music venue with a speakeasy vibe and excellent sound quality. Space feels cozy but includes a pillar that blocks some views and no seating inside the music hall. Crowd energy is lively, with a fun bar atmosphere upstairs and re-entry allowed for fresh air.

Delicious food pairs well with great service and a lively atmosphere. The menu offers a variety of tasty options that complement the drinks and music.

A tiny speakeasy vibe sets the tone with a cool atmosphere. Live performances happen in the back, making it a chill music venue and bar.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and reasonably priced."

"The bar staff were awesome and helped me get water."

"It's a cool little venue with an intimate vibe."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited; arrive early to secure a spot in the free lot.

2

Bottom Lounge hosts weddings and private events in their upstairs space.

3

The venue is wheelchair accessible, making it friendly for disabled visitors.

11
Sawada Coffee image 1
Coffee shop

Large coffee shop with expansive indoor and outdoor space shares seating with a bar and restaurant, creating a unique, hip atmosphere. The vibe stays chill and peaceful, suited for relaxing or working with fast WiFi and plenty of outlets. Decor includes boxing ring elements and wood-metal interiors, adding to its distinct style.

Food comes with affordable prices and a limited menu that focuses on quality. A brick-paved hideaway out back offers a cozy spot to enjoy the delicious options.

Unique Japanese-style blends and cool atmosphere define this coffee spot. It connects to an open area with other food and drink options, adding to its vibe.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was amazing and super flavorful."

"It's a really cool spot with a relaxed vibe."

"I found the coffee here to be amazing and divine."

Good to know

1

Sawada Coffee offers macadamia nut milk as an alternative milk option.

2

The order ahead option allows customers to skip the long line.

3

Sawada Coffee shares a space with a BBQ joint.

12
Elements karaoke lounge image 1

Private karaoke rooms offer vibrant, comfortable spaces with good sound systems and amazing lighting. The atmosphere stays fun and energetic, though rooms can get stuffy without HVAC vents. Music plays loudly, creating an unmatched vibe for singing with friends.

Food stays hot and satisfying until midnight. Dishes consistently come out good to great in quality.

Rooms feel really cool and clean. Employees at the karaoke lounge come off as super cool.

People are saying

"I had a blast with all the fun activities here!"

"The private rooms here are really nice and create a great atmosphere."

"I loved the karaoke room, I will definitely come back."

Good to know

1

Reservations for karaoke rooms are recommended to ensure availability.

2

A 20% service charge is automatically added to all drink orders.

3

Expect a $5 up-charge for premium liquor in cocktails.

13
Soho House Chicago image 1

Social club combines stylish design with curated cozy rooms and a heated rooftop pool offering breathtaking city views. Atmosphere shifts from cool and relaxed during the day to an amazing late night scene at the bar. Amenities include a huge gym, spa, cinema room, and quality dining options.

Food consistently meets high standards of quality with every visit. Staff complements the experience, making dining feel top notch and well maintained.

Effortlessly cool vibe shapes the atmosphere here. The space feels upscale without trying too hard.

People are saying

"The atmosphere here is effortlessly cool and vibey."

"The Rooftop staff were professional and attentive, making the visit special."

"The food here was excellent."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dining, especially during peak hours.

2

Parking is available in a garage one block away from the venue.

3

The hotel does not require a membership for overnight stays.

14
Good Night John Boy image 1

Upstairs features an iconic disco ball and a small dance floor surrounded by reserved tables. The atmosphere carries a fun, energetic vibe with expert DJ-ing that keeps music lively and engaging. The space blends 70s decor with modern touches, creating a unique club experience.

Food and drinks consistently impress with their outstanding quality and delicious flavors.

Downstairs features a 70s vibe with really cool scenery. The atmosphere invites dancing and fun with a consistently cool vibe throughout.

People are saying

"The staff at this nightclub were so nice and attentive all night."

"The food and drinks here were outstanding."

"The vibe here is so cool, especially the 70s downstairs."

Good to know

1

As of 5/4/24, there is a $20 cash cover for guys and $10 for women.

2

Expect long wait times, especially on weekends, to access the upper floor.

3

The dress code is strict; appropriate clothing is required to enter.

15
Drip Collective image 1
Coffee shop

Coffee shop combines whimsical decor with loud music and projected cartoons, creating an urban street style vibe. Space features eclectic seating like hand chairs and skateboard decks, attracting a lively, artistic crowd. Atmosphere suits socializing more than studying due to lighting and sound levels.

Breakfast food stands out with fresh, delicious flavors. Drinks include a variety of creative, fun options alongside top notch coffee.

Aluminum cups for cold drinks add a reusable touch. The vibe feels modern and curated with art and music set at a comfortable level for chatting.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be insanely good and thoughtfully crafted."

"The music and interior design here are really cool."

"I found the coffee and food here to be delicious and fresh."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs weekdays from 8 to 10 am with discounted drinks.

2

Drip Collective hosts weekly events, including DJs on weekends starting at 12 PM.

3

Latte art throwdowns and community events are regularly held at Drip Collective.

16
McDonald's image 1
Fast food restaurant

Spacious and modern fast food restaurant with wireless charging stations built into tables and self-service kiosks for ordering. Atmosphere feels premium and clean, with plentiful comfortable seating and a rotating international menu offering unique items not found elsewhere. Energy is relaxed with efficient flow and a stylish, open design.

Food arrives quickly after ordering at the kiosk and tastes fresher than most other locations. The menu includes items from around the world, all prepared perfectly with no errors in orders.

Wireless phone chargers showcase super cool technology. Unique international menu items and a whipped cream-like hand sanitizer add to the distinctive experience.

People are saying

"You can try unique international burgers here without leaving Chicago."

"You've got to try the international food options here; they're a fun bonus."

"It's cool trying international menu items from around the world here."

Good to know

1

This McDonald's offers unique international menu items not found elsewhere in the US.

2

Parking in the area costs a few bucks per hour.

3

The restaurant is known for its cleanliness and friendly staff.

17
Texan Taco Bar image 1
Restaurant

Massive bar with a rooftop space and live band downstairs creates a festive atmosphere filled with loud music that encourages dancing and socializing. The place offers a variety of tacos and strong margaritas, attracting a lively crowd who enjoy energetic nights and ample space for fun.

Food and drinks stand out with consistently great quality. Service and atmosphere match the top notch food experience.

A hidden entrance leads upstairs through a secret door behind a mock door, creating a unique and cool vibe. The spot gets lively with live music on weeknights, adding to its cool atmosphere.

People are saying

"I thought the tacos here were amazing and unique."

"The food here is amazing, especially the tacos."

"The music and lively atmosphere make it a cool spot to hang out."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with great drink deals.

2

Expect a lively atmosphere during happy hour, especially on Fridays.

3

Happy hour includes half-price appetizers and select drinks.

18
The Wild Hare & Singing Armadillo Frog Sanctuary image 1

Spacious venue with live reggae music and a rooftop club level offers a lively, energetic atmosphere. Separate rooms for DJ and live band create distinct experiences. Decor includes signed pictures and framed posters on woodwork and green paint.

Food stands out with delicious dishes and good quality that impresses regularly. The head chef personally checks in to ensure satisfaction.

Live music and poetry night entertainment create a cool vibe. The surrounding area adds to the overall appealing atmosphere.

People are saying

"The food here is superfantastic and has good portion sizes."

"The live music and atmosphere here are amazing."

"The live music and poetry night entertainment was cool."

Good to know

1

There is a $20 cover charge after 8 PM for entry.

2

A 20% gratuity is automatically added to all orders.

3

Karaoke night happens on Sundays with no cover charge.

19
Voodoo Doughnut image 1
Donut shop

Donut shop showcases vibrant pink decor and a whimsical donut display that creates a playful, energetic atmosphere. Loud music and occasional noisy groups contribute to a chaotic vibe. The space offers custom donut creations and a photo booth, blending fun with unique treats.

The food features a devil's food cake donut coated in cinnamon sugar with cayenne and dried chili for a balance of sweetness and heat. Options include a variety of specialty donuts with bold flavors.

Pentagram decorations on donuts create a unique look. The overall vibe feels cool and the donuts themselves are interesting to try.

People are saying

"The vegan donuts here are amazing, with many creative options."

"The food here is undeniably delicious and creative."

"The donuts here are cool with their interesting names and shapes."

Good to know

1

Parking can be hard to find, especially during peak hours on weekends.

2

Voodoo Doughnut offers a wide variety of unique flavors.

3

Vegan options are available and are clearly marked on the menu.

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Fulton Market District, Chicago

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